Thinking about getting braces or clear aligners but wondering how long it will take. The answer isn’t the same for everyone—treatment time depends on things like the type of appliance, the complexity of tooth movement, and how well you stick to the plan. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics in Mobile, AL, have helped countless patients through this process and know that timing is a big part of the decision. Let’s explore what determines how long treatment lasts and how you can keep things on track.
How Different Orthodontic Treatments Compare in Timing
Not all orthodontic treatments follow the same timeline—some methods work faster, while others allow for more gradual adjustments. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics help patients in Mobile, AL, choose the right option based on their goals and lifestyle. Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:
- Traditional Metal Braces – Typically 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of tooth movement.
- Clear or Ceramic Braces – Function similarly to metal braces, with an average timeline of 18 to 36 months.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign and Similar Brands) – Often 12 to 24 months, but minor cases can be completed in as little as six months.
Knowing how these options compare can help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle. Next, let’s look at ways to keep treatment on track—or even speed it up.
How to Keep Your Treatment on Track—or Even Speed It Up
While orthodontic treatment takes time, there are ways to help things move along as efficiently as possible. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics work closely with patients to make sure everything stays on schedule. Here are some ways you can help speed up the process:
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Wearing clear aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day or using rubber bands as directed can make a big difference in keeping things on track.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly helps avoid gum issues or cavities, which could slow down progress.
Stick to Braces-Friendly Foods
Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage brackets or wires, leading to setbacks and extra appointments.
Attend Regular Appointments
Adjustments and check-ins keep treatment progressing at the right pace, so staying consistent with visits is important.
A little extra effort can help you stay on track with your timeline. Next, let’s examine the biggest factors that influence treatment time.
What Affects the Length of Treatment?
Besides what type of treatment you choose, several personal factors play a role in how long treatment lasts. Some patients complete their treatment faster than expected, while others may need extra time to get the best results. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics consider all these factors when creating a plan that works for you.
- Age – Younger patients often see quicker results because their jawbones are still developing, making it easier for teeth to shift. Adults can still get great results, but movement can take a little longer since their bones are fully developed.
- Complexity of Tooth Movement – Minor gaps or slightly crooked teeth may only need a year or so to correct, while severe crowding or bite issues require a more extended process. The more movement required, the longer the treatment time.
- Patient Compliance – Treatment stays on schedule when patients follow instructions. Wearing aligners for the recommended time, using rubber bands as directed, and avoiding foods that could damage braces all make a big difference.
- Regular Appointments – Missing orthodontic visits can lead to unnecessary delays. Routine check-ins allow Dr. Bennett to make adjustments and keep your progress moving forward.
While these factors influence your treatment length, there are ways to keep everything on track or speed things up. Let’s take a look take a look at why patience can pay off
When Longer Treatment Is Worth It
While everyone wants a shorter treatment timeline, a little extra patience sometimes leads to better, longer-lasting results. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics take the time to make sure your teeth move safely and effectively, even if it means treatment lasts a bit longer. Here’s why certain situations require a little more time:
- Severe Crowding or Spacing Issues – When teeth are significantly misaligned, they need to shift gradually to avoid damaging the surrounding bone and tissues. Rushing this process can lead to instability or relapse after treatment.
- Bite Corrections – Fixing overbites, underbites, and crossbites involves moving not just the teeth but also the jaw. Since jaw adjustments require slow, controlled movement, treatment can take a bit longer.
- Bone and Gum Health – Moving teeth too quickly can put unnecessary stress on the bone and gums, increasing the risk of complications. A steady, controlled approach helps maintain long-term oral health.
A few extra months of treatment can make a big difference in achieving stable, lasting results. Once your braces or aligners come off, the next step is to ensure your teeth stay in place—let’s discuss retainers.
Keeping Your Results with Retainers
After months or even years of orthodontic treatment, the last thing you want is for your teeth to shift back. That’s where retainers come in. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics provide customized retainers to help maintain your new smile long after your braces or aligners come off.
Types of Retainers:
- Removable Retainers – Easy to clean and worn primarily at night.
- Fixed Retainers – A thin wire bonded behind the teeth for long-term stability.
How Long Do You Need a Retainer?
- Full-time wear is recommended for the first few months.
- Most patients transition to nighttime wear indefinitely to prevent shifting.
The commitment doesn’t stop once treatment is over—wearing your retainer as instructed helps keep your results in place. A little effort now means you can enjoy your smile for years to come!
No Better Time to Start Than Now!
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t happen overnight, but every step brings you closer to the results you want. Picture yourself walking through Bienville Square or laughing with friends at Dauphin’s—feeling confident about your smile makes every moment better. Dr. Todd Bennett and the team at Bennett Orthodontics are here to help you get there. The best time to start is now, so schedule your free consultation in Mobile, AL, and let’s get things moving!